Shout! Studios secures North American rights for ‘Magpie’
A new thriller on the horizon
In a recent development, Shout! Studios has clinched the North American distribution rights for the highly anticipated film Magpie, starring Daisy Ridley. This acquisition followed a competitive bidding scenario, underscoring the film’s potential impact in the market. The deal was finalized shortly after the Cannes Market, a testament to the film’s promising reception.
Plot and intrigue
Magpie is a neo-noir thriller that delves into the complexities of a married couple, Anette (played by Ridley) and Ben (Shazad Latif). Their seemingly stable life begins to unravel when their daughter is cast alongside a glamorous movie star, Alicia (Matilda Lutz). As Anette grows increasingly suspicious of Ben’s infatuation with Alicia, a web of secrets and lies threatens to destroy their lives. This gripping narrative promises to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
For a sneak peek, check out the Magpie trailer.
Creative minds behind ‘Magpie’
The film is based on an original idea by Daisy Ridley, known for her roles in Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker and Young Woman and the Sea. The screenplay is penned by Tom Bateman, who has previously worked on Murder on the Orient Express and Thirteen Lives. Sam Yates, acclaimed for his work on VANYA and The Hope Rooms, directs the film.
The cast includes:
- Daisy Ridley as Anette
- Shazad Latif as Ben
- Matilda Lutz as Alicia
- Pippa Bennett-Warner from Gangs of London and See How They Run
- Hiba Ahmed
- Cherrelle Skeete from Hanna and Snowflakes
- Alistair Petrie from Rogue One: A Star Wars Story and Sex Education
A collaborative triumph
Reflecting on the journey, Ridley expressed her excitement: “To bring this idea to life has been one of the most gratifying moments of my career. Working with Tom, Sam, Kate, and the wonderful cast and crew on Magpie has been an unbelievable collaboration, and now getting to partner with Shout! to bring the film to audiences is incredibly exciting.”
Strategic release plans
Shout!’s distribution deal encompasses all major platforms, including theatrical, digital, video-on-demand, broadcast, and home entertainment. The studio plans a strategic launch, starting with a theatrical release later this year. This multi-platform approach aims to maximize the film’s reach and impact.
A film to savor and discuss
Jordan Fields, Shout’s senior vice president of acquisitions and originals, highlighted the film’s unique appeal: “Magpie is a movie you enjoy at least twice — first, when you experience the pleasure of a stylish, expertly acted, and twisty psychological thriller, and then when you dissect and discuss it with someone else. There are far too few of these gems out there, so we’re eager to share Magpie with audiences hungry for deeply satisfying entertainment.”
Production and negotiation
The film is produced by Kate Solomon of 55 Films, Daisy Ridley and Tom Bateman of Werewolf Films, Nadia Khamlichi and Sierra Garcia of Align, and Camilla Bray. The movie deal was negotiated by CAA for Werewolf Films, 55 Films, Align filmmakers, and Shout!’s Jordan Fields and Steve Katz, vice president of business affairs. Ridley, Bateman, and Yates are all represented by CAA.
Final thoughts
Magpie promises to be a standout addition to the thriller genre, blending a compelling narrative with stellar performances and expert direction. As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to build, making it a must-watch for cinema enthusiasts. Keep an eye out for this film, as it is set to captivate and provoke thought long after the credits roll.